What was George Kennan's perspective on U.S. policy towards the Soviet Union?

George Kennan's perspective on U.S. policy towards the Soviet Union centered on the concept of containment, which he articulated in his famous "Long Telegram" and later in his writings. Kennan believed that the Soviet Union was inherently expansionist, driven by a desire to spread its communist ideology globally. He argued that rather than confronting the Soviets aggressively or inviting a direct conflict, the best approach was to adopt a strategy of firm and vigilant containment. This meant that the U.S. should work to prevent the spread of communism beyond where it had already taken root, thereby limiting Soviet influence without provoking war. This approach shaped U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War, guiding actions such as the Marshall Plan and the establishment of NATO, aimed at reinforcing democratic nations against possible Soviet aggression.

The other options suggest alternative policies that diverge from Kennan's views. Aggressive military action might provoke a direct confrontation, which Kennan sought to avoid. Promoting diplomatic relations and trade could imply a willingness to accept Soviet expansion, contradicting the containment strategy. Immediate disarmament of nuclear weapons does not align with Kennan’s thoughts on how to manage the Soviet threat, as he deemed the military balance crucial in the context of their expansionist agenda